April 9, 2021
Dear Club and League Representatives:
Today, Governor Whitmer requested youth sports consider a voluntary suspension of in-person activities, such as practices and games, in Michigan for the next two weeks. The presence of COVID-19 variants, COVID-19 ‘fatigue’ and non-compliance with MDHHS Emergency Orders, such as masking and social distancing, are contributing to the increase in positive cases.
For now, practices, games and tournament matches affiliated with the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA) may proceed through Monday, April 12, 2021. However, MSYSA strongly urges those participants that may have practices, games and tournament matches tonight, over the weekend, and on Monday, to increase their efforts to comply with all MSYSA return-to-play (RTP) guidelines and the risk mitigation strategies as specifically outlined in our April 8, 2021 communication. For those unable to comply, or for those who do not wish to comply with our RTP guidelines and risk mitigation strategies, they are not to participate.
Unlike other sports, soccer is predominately played outdoors. As a result of Governor Whitmer’s press conference, MSYSA is in the process of reviewing our RTP guidelines. Please anticipate an electronic communication from MSYSA on Tuesday (AM), April 13, 2021 as it relates to a potential pause on MSYSA affiliated (indoor/outdoor) activities at that time.
In closing, there is a Zoom conference call scheduled for this afternoon at 4 PM. The Zoom call-in credentials were previously sent to all club and league representatives.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
